In my worldview, pizza and beer go together just like peanut butter and jelly. When my friends and I would dig into a meaty concoction filled with sausage and pepperoni, our favorite brews always accompanied the choice. This pairing wasn’t about flavor or the palette; pizza and beer were simply a known pairing.
When I went on a trip to Napa Valley to do some research for my book Windstorm, which has winery themes, I was surprised to find dozens of pizza places within Napa Valley, all of which served wine with their pies.
While I’d never heard of such a thing, I quickly discovered that Napa Valley does not have ordinary pizza…and they certainly don’t have ordinary wine.
Skewered shrimp and tomato pizza? This pairs well with the Sauvignon Blanc from a specific winery.
Spinach and artichoke pizza with grilled mushrooms? Try a sweeter wine such as Riesling.
Duck pizza braised with barbeque sauce? Try a Merlot.
For every type of pizza, there was a wine to accommodate.
And what I learned as I explored historic wineries with ornate décor is that it’s not just about pouring a red or white glass of wine. Wine to the local Napa Valley folks is a mini-Siesta, a means of connecting people, a means of slowing down and living in the present moment.
We rush through our days, hectic-filled with responsibilities and appointments. And yet, Napa Valley has figured out a way to take a breather, relax, and appreciate the little things.
Next time you’re in the mood for pizza, check out Napa Valley and enjoy a glass of vino with your choice.
Thanks for stopping by to share your food for thought, Elaine!
You can find Elaine here:
Elaine Calloway writes paranormal fiction with a Southern twist. Windstorm is part of her Urban Fantasy Elemental Clan Series, which has a total of 5 books. She is currently working on a 10-book Southern Ghosts Series and Book 5, Kentucky Reign, will be released Spring of 2020. To follow Elaine’s book updates, join her readers list here: https://forms.aweber.com/form/83/1228819183.htm
Windstorm Pinterest Board:
https://www.pinterest.com/elainecalloway/windstorm-book-4-elemental-clan-series/
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